Page 39 - Homestead By Ann Newhouse

town to look after the sale of these items. The profits went to John Tirrell, for the ‘communal fund’, in return he would give them a small sum, as a reward for their hard work.
John Tirrell was generally liked by the majority of the people, but there was a mummer of discontent about the way he handled some matters. Many of the folk in the Homestead wouldn’t question things, as they depended on him for their livelihoods.
After we had finished our meal, I got a surprise. Sofie and Johanna came sauntering in dressed for a party in Spanish style outfits, and they joined us at the table.
“Good evening boys,” Johanna greeted us as she pulled a chair to the table. Sofie did likewise, giving me a smile.
Mitch jumped up and called for another round of our ‘poison’. The girls ordered light beers, and we lads ordered whiskey. I wasn’t sure if this was a good idea for me, as I was still new to the drinking game. . . but the lads had told me I needed to man up. The girls seemed to be accustomed to drinking, as I watched Sofie show her sign to the barman for another round. I was still just sipping my whiskey, much to the amusement of Mitch and Josh as I caught a glance between them, giggling at my expense. It was a rowdy night, music, drinking, and dancing. Sofie pulled me up on my feet to dance on the already packed floor, ignoring my cries of ‘I can’t dance’. She would not take no for an answer. As it happened it did not matter. The place was so packed, most people just jumped up and down or swung their partners until they were dizzy, some falling down and pulling anyone close with them. I had to say I enjoyed the night but felt it may have set me back in the recovery of my feet!
The best bit was still to come, as we all walked home arm in arm. Sofie and I, Mitch and Johanna (a bit of a toy boy for Johanna, I thought), and Josh, who had met up with one of the barmaids, Tilly. She was a young student, aged 19, who was working part time in the bar and studying to be a lawyer. Her family had lived in the Homestead for many years.
“Well Ned how are your feet, they must be hurting after that performance,” Sofie giggled. “They are going to need some tender love and care,” I replied nervously.
Taking my face in both hands, she kissed me full on the lips. I was shocked and speechless. “Sorry, have I overstepped the mark? Have I read you wrong?”
“Sofie! That felt so good.” I replied, after getting my breath back. I took her in my arms and kissed her hard.
“Oh Ned, I’m so glad we’re on the same page, I had my doubts.”